1 Elbert Bede Compiled by Michael D. Robinson Grand Historian of Oregon, Research Lodge of Oregon #198 Historian Benjamin Elbert Bede (Author, Publisher and Editor of the Cottage Grove Sentinel 1912-1937 and of the Oregon “Freemason” 1938-1955, wrote and published an historical book “The Fabulous Opal Whiteley” and several volumes on the Northwest and Freemasonry, President of the Oregon Newspaper Association and active in the Willamette Press Association, Portland Civic Action Club and Portland City Club.) He was born on June 28, 1881 in Randolph, Iowa. He went to North Branch Minnesota, before moving to Cottage Grove, Oregon in about 1913-14. He was Raised a Master Mason on September 18, 1907 in Minnesota and affiliated with Cottage Grove Lodge #51, Cottage Grove, Oregon in 1913. He was elected Master of that Lodge for 1919. He remained a member of Cottage Grove Lodge #51 for the rest of his life. He affiliated and was a Charter member of Research Lodge #198 in 1931-32. He also was an affiliated Charter member of Ashlar Lodge #209 in Portland on June 17, 1948. He received the Scottish Rite 4°- 14° on September 19, 1914 in Duluth, Minnesota; the 18° on May 8, 1918 in the Eugene Valley and the 30°- 32° on November 19, 1919 in the Portland Valley with the unnumbered Special Reunion Class at the Portland Municipal Auditorium (a class of 370). He demitted from the Portland Council and Consistory on February 6, 1923 to join the Eugene Valley and was a Charter member of the Consistory formed October 16, 1923. He was the Venerable Master of Kadosh in Eugene 1933-35. He later affiliated with the Portland Valley on December 28, 1943 after moving north. He received the KCCH on October 20, 1931. He was elected Inspector General Honorary 33° on October 22, 1935 and Coroneted in Seattle, Washington on January 25, 1936. Member of Al Kader Shrine. He died October 25, 1967 in Gresham, Oregon. He was buried at Lincoln Memorial Park in Portland.
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Elbert Bede Compiled by Michael D. Robinson
Grand Historian of Oregon, Research Lodge of Oregon #198 Historian
Benjamin Elbert Bede (Author, Publisher and Editor of the Cottage Grove Sentinel 1912-1937 and of the
Oregon “Freemason” 1938-1955, wrote and published an historical book “The Fabulous Opal Whiteley” and
several volumes on the Northwest and Freemasonry, President of the Oregon Newspaper Association and
active in the Willamette Press Association, Portland Civic Action Club and Portland City Club.) He was born
on June 28, 1881 in Randolph, Iowa. He went to North Branch Minnesota, before moving to Cottage Grove,
Oregon in about 1913-14. He was Raised a Master Mason on September 18, 1907 in Minnesota and affiliated
with Cottage Grove Lodge #51, Cottage Grove, Oregon in 1913. He was elected Master of that Lodge for
1919. He remained a member of Cottage Grove Lodge #51 for the rest of his life. He affiliated and was a
Charter member of Research Lodge #198 in 1931-32. He also was an affiliated Charter member of Ashlar
Lodge #209 in Portland on June 17, 1948. He received the Scottish Rite 4°- 14° on September 19, 1914 in
Duluth, Minnesota; the 18° on May 8, 1918 in the Eugene Valley and the 30°- 32° on November 19, 1919 in
the Portland Valley with the unnumbered Special Reunion Class at the Portland Municipal Auditorium (a
class of 370). He demitted from the Portland Council and Consistory on February 6, 1923 to join the Eugene
Valley and was a Charter member of the Consistory formed October 16, 1923. He was the Venerable Master
of Kadosh in Eugene 1933-35. He later affiliated with the Portland Valley on December 28, 1943 after
moving north. He received the KCCH on October 20, 1931. He was elected Inspector General Honorary 33°
on October 22, 1935 and Coroneted in Seattle, Washington on January 25, 1936. Member of Al Kader Shrine.
He died October 25, 1967 in Gresham, Oregon. He was buried at Lincoln Memorial Park in Portland.
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Special Reunion Class November 21, 1919 left edge of picture, Benjamin Elbert Bede, right bottom corner
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Illustrious Brother Bede June 10, 1950 Honors
We Hear and See, But Do
Not Understand By Elbert Bede, 1945
At every meeting of a Masonic Lodge those in attendance, especially if they be not serious
Masons, hear and see things which they do not understand and do not comprehend, or which they
misinterpret. Many ask questions about the meaning of this or that, or wonder why this or that is
done, but few take advantage of the great amount of literature, Masonic and otherwise, which is
available, from which they may inform themselves as to those things which to them are not clear.
Nearly all of us-possibly all of us--have taken parts in the opening and closing ceremonies
without knowing the meaning of all the words we used; have taken parts in degree work without
knowing the full significance of words we used for the benefit of the candidate; have assumed
obligations without knowing the meanings of some of the words used in those obligations, and
later have imposed those obligations upon others, still without knowing the meanings of some of
the words therein contained. It is in the hope of partially meeting the foregoing conditions that
this paper has been prepared. It is not claimed that the material here presented is the last word.
Wherever opinion is expressed, it is the opinion of the author at the time he expressed that
opinion. No attempt has been made to do more than explain what we find in our Ritual, or things
of Masonic connotation about which questions frequently are asked.
* * *
Acacia-Referred to in the Scriptures as shittah or shittim. It still grows abundantly in the vicinity
of Jerusalem. Of it the Ark of the Covenant, the table for the shewbread and the remainder of the
sacred furniture of the Tabernacle were constructed, thus making it a sacred wood to the Jews,
who always planted a sprig of it at the head of the grave of a departed friend. It was believed to
be impervious to attacks of insects and pests, and became a symbol of immortality.
Accepted - See "Free and Accepted."
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A. F. & A. M. - F. & A. M.-See "Titles of Grand Lodges."
A. L.-Anno Lucis - year of light or creation of the world, according to the Jewish chronology.
Add 4,000 to the current year.
Altar-Passing Between It and Master - One explanation is that, theoretically at least, the 'Master
must have the Great Lights in his charge and within his sight, that he may be constantly
reminded of their Lessons, Teachings and Symbolism as he conducts his Lodge. Also he is
required to at all times know that the Lodge is properly furnished. Unless it is necessary to do so
in the work or ceremonies, it is the opinion of the author that it is a discourtesy to pass between
the Altar and the Master.
Apron - The custom of wearing an apron, and for purposes at least similar to those for which the
Mason wears his Apron, dates back to the earliest ages of recorded history. Aprons were worn by
Operative Masons for utilitarian purposes, and it was natural that the custom should be continued
by the Speculatives, with a beautiful Symbolism added. (Also see "Clothing.")
Arts - Knowledge, or things made known. (See "Parts" and "Points.")
Ashlar-Freestone as taken from the quarry. (Complete explanation of the Ashlar is given In the
historical lecture of the Entered Apprentice degree.)
Balloting Upon Petitions - In Oregon there is no prescribed procedure that must be followed in
conduct of a ballot. Probably few Jurisdictions have such a procedure. The acts performed to
clear the ballot box and later to declare the color of the ballot, while practically the same in all
Lodges, are apparently in compliance with ancient usage, rather than in accordance with any
ritualistic or other requirement. In early years the ballot box was placed on the Altar and the roll
of the members was called, each responding by approaching the Altar, saluting and balloting.
Blue Lodges - There are several attempted explanations of the origin of the term, "Blue Lodges."
The covering of a Lodge is the blue canopy of heaven, in which sense blue symbolizes the
universality of Masonry. The Order of the Garter (to which reference is made in the Oregon
Manual, and in many other Manuals) used a blue ribbon, and some incline to the belief that
Masonry took the color from that circumstance. The Architect of King Solomon's Temple is said
to have arrayed himself in blue when he worked on his Masterpiece. The most probable origin of
the term seems to be that, in the early days of Speculative Freemasonry, it was ordered that
Aprons of officers should be lined and bordered with blue. William III of England is said to have
designated blue as the favorite color of the Craft. When other Masonic Bodies adopted Aprons
lined or bordered with red, purple and other colors, it must have been an easy way to designate
the Symbolic Lodges by speaking of them as Blue Lodges. Blue denotes union, fidelity,
benevolence, friendship, loyalty, truth, hence it is peculiarly an appropriate color by which to
designate Masons. Some Masonic writers take exception to the expression "Blue Lodge." Their
explanation is as follows: "The clouded canopy of the Entered Apprentice Lodge does not permit
a view of the heavens. This degree is the covering degree and its color is white. The Fellow Craft
degree deals with the sciences, including astronomy, and displays the stars set in the blue
canopy, hence it is the Blue Lodge, while red was the color anciently selected for the Master
Mason or Craft Lodge." The Craft Lodge included the Royal Arch. Evidently when the Royal
Arch was separated from the Master Mason Lodge the color which had been that of the Craft
Lodge went with it. This explanation would leave the Master Mason Lodge without a color.
Cabletow-While, in the earlier years of Freemasonry, definite distances, such as 40 miles for the
Master Mason and three miles for the Entered Apprentice, were set as the length of the
Cabletow, use of the reasoning powers which Masons are presumed to have brings the
conclusion that no definite length can be set for all Brethren under all conditions. Too many
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circumstances enter into the ability of a Brother to go to the aid of another. Charity and Brotherly
Love cannot be measured by a rigid scale of miles and minutes. Each Brother must fix the length
of his own Cabletow. The Cabletow symbolicly attaches a Brother to his Lodge, in which sense
its length is greatly restricted, for the reason he is restricted from making a selection either of the
obligations which he will hold inviolate, or of the Lessons and Teachings by which his life shall
be guided.
Chapiter - The capital or uppermost member of a column, pillar, or pilaster. Often
mispronounced as "chapter" or "chapiteer."
Clandestine – Not regular, not recognized by authority. Any Lodge not recognized by the Grand
Lodge of its Jurisdiction is clandestine regardless of whence its charter may have come. There
are at the present time no known clandestine Masonic Lodges in Oregon whose members are of
the white race.
Clothing - White Gloves and Apron, the Gloves named first, are the Clothing of a Mason, but, at
least in this country, wearing of Gloves in the lodge room has been discontinued, probably
because of the inconvenience that would be involved and the confusion that would result from an
attempt to supply them. In the opinion of this writer, the Apron should be worn in such manner
that it may be in full view.
Columns - See "Wardens."
Communication - A word of unknown derivation used to denote a meeting of a Masonic Lodge.
This writer's suggestion is that the word was derived from the fact that only in a meeting such as
the word suggests may the secrets of Freemasonry be communicated. Mackey's explanation is
that "communication" is fundamentally the same as "communion" and, hence, Masonic meetings
are termed communications because such meetings are the fellowship of men engaged in a
common pursuit, and governed by a common principle, and there is therein a communication or
participation of those feelings and sentiments that constitute a true brotherhood.
Compasses - The triangle ever has been held sacred and a symbol of Deity. The Compasses,
which we use as one of the Great Lights provide the triangle. In Operative Freemasonry the
equilateral triangle was placed on the Altar, and, as our Compasses have replaced the equilateral
triangle, it is the contention of many students of Freemasonry that the Compasses should be set
at 60 degrees, thus providing two sides of an equilateral triangle. The other side is provided by
an imaginary line drawn between the two points of the Compasses. When the Compasses are set
at 60 degrees, they symbolize the equilateral triangle which they have replaced.
Corn-This is a generic word and includes every kind of grain. Our wheat or barley probably was
the corn of the ancients.
Cowan - This is a Masonic term for intruder or eavesdropper. In days of Operative Masonry it
referred to an ignorant Mason who laid stones together without mortar, or piled rough stones into
a wall without making them square and true. A Mason without the word, with no reputation.
Anciently an Entered Apprentice who masqueraded as a Master, or a Mason not yet designated
as free. (Also see "Eavesdropper.")
Darkness, Place of-Ecliptic - "King Solomon's Temple was situated so far north of the ecliptic
that neither the sun nor moon at meridian height could dart its rays into the north part of the
building." The ecliptic is that great circle of the celestial sphere which is the apparent path of the
sun among the stars, or that of the earth as seen from the sun. In only this elliptical path may
eclipses occur, hence the name "ecliptic." The earth travels about the sun once a year in this
elliptical path; the sun is at one of the foci of that ellipse. The axis of the earth, about which the
earth turns once in 24 hours, thus making a night and day, is inclined to this hypothetical plane
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(the ecliptic) by approximately 230 degrees. At one point of its yearly path the north pole of the
earth is inclined toward the sun by this amount. Half way further along in the earth's path the
north pole is inclined away by this amount. If a building in the northern hemisphere is situated
beyond 23 ½ degrees north, the sun at meridian does not at any time of the year dart its rays into
the northerly portion thereof. King Solomon's Temple was in latitude 31 degrees, 47 minutes
north.
Decayeth - To decline, fail , fall away. (Flood decayeth.)
Demit-(Dimit) - A Demit and a Certificate of Standing often are confused. A Demit is issued
only to one who has removed from the state. A Certificate of Standing is used for transfer of
membership within the state. Visiting is permitted on a Demit. The length of time a Demit may
be thus used varies in the several Jurisdictions. In Oregon visitation on demit is permitted for one
year. A Certificate of Standing, until used, does not affect membership.
Dependent Bodies - A dependent organization is one in which membership is dependent upon
Masonic membership. The Shrine, Grotto, Eastern Star and Amaranth are examples. The York
and Scottish Rites sometimes are spoken of as dependent, but probably not correctly so, as each
Rite has its Craft Lodge and is complete in itself. Craft Lodge degrees of the Scottish Rite,
however, are only in rare instances conferred in a Jurisdiction in which a recognized Grand
Lodge of Masons is operating. The Craft Lodge degrees as conferred in the United States are
generally recognized as those of the York Rite. Degrees above Master Mason in either Rite seem
to this writer to be more correctly termed when referred to as "subsequent." (Also see "Scottish
Rite" and "York Rite.")
Due Guard - An Americanism. To duly guard the person using it, reminding him of his vows and
the penalty of violation. Teaches every Brother to set a watch over his words, his acts and his
thoughts.
Eavesdropper - In early days buildings were open under the eaves, it thus being possible for one
listening under the eaves to hear what was being said inside the building. Such a person received
the droppings from the eaves, hence the term, "eavesdropper." Sometimes one apprehended
trying to learn by stealth instead of by work (sometimes referred to as a discovered cowan) was
as a punishment held under the eaves to receive the droppings, hence the association of the
terms, "cowans" and “eavesdroppers." (Also see "Cowans.")
Emblem-Symbol - Although these two words often are used synonymously, they do not express
exactly the same meaning. An emblem represents an idea by a visible object, but a symbol is
more extensive, including representation of an idea by an image, whether that image be visible or
merely expressed. An emblem, by its shape or form, indicates that of which it is an emblem. A
symbol may in no way picture or indicate that for which it is a symbol. A symbol may be
arbitrarily adopted but not so an emblem. All emblems are symbols, but not all symbols are
emblems.
Entered Apprentice-Fellow Craft - In Operative Freemasonry a lad who desired to become a
member of the Craft was required to prove by an apprenticeship that he was suitable material.
For that purpose his name was "entered" in the books and he then began his seven years of
service as an Entered Apprentice, at the end of which time he could present his Master's Piece
and be admitted as a Fellow of the Craft . When Speculative Masonry was divided into degrees,
one degree was named Fellow Craft. (Some Masonic students contend the name of the
Apprentice was not "entered" until the completion of his apprenticeship, also that he became a
Master rather than a Fellow Craft. (Also see "Origin of Freemasonry.")
Fellow Craft - See "Entered Apprentice."
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Fides - A goddess among the Romans who presided over contracts, sanctified oaths and
punished their violation. To her Numa first erected temples. Her priests were covered with a
white veil as a symbol of purity and fidelity. (The ancients worshipped Deity under the name of
Fides.)
Forty-Seventh Problem of Euclid - Enunciation by Euclid: In any right-angled triangle, the
square which is described upon the side subtending the right angle is equal to the sum of the,
squares described upon the sides which contain the right angle. To describe the part this theorem
plays in geometry would require a volume.
Free and Accepted - "Free Mason" as a term was used as early as 1212, when it designated an
Operative Mason who was free from various restrictions and free to travel. During the Middle
Ages there were Guild Masons who were local in character, then there were the Free Masons
who travelled about as their services were needed. They were free of the guilds and they were
free of local laws. The, Roman Collegia were organizations of persons of similar pursuits, and
probably were developed because the individual was submerged for the benefit of the empire.
The dictators opposed the collegia and attempted to force their disbandment, but the College of
Architects was sanctioned for a time because its members were too valuable to the state to be
abolished. Its members were permitted to regulate their own affairs and work under their own
constitutions. They were free from the restrictions intended to destroy other colleges. The
Cathedral Builders were Free Masons because they were builders of a privileged class and free
to travel about in times of feudal bondage. Later these Free Masons became associated in
Lodges, and skilled workmen were made Free Masons. Only" Masons of Lodges were
designated as free. The unskilled were termed "cowans." Masons employed on King Solomon's
Temple, tradition informs us, were granted special privileges. They were free of taxes and
regulations. As the years passed, and Operative Masons became fewer in number, it seemed
desirable to accept into Lodges men who were not craftsmen but had something to offer the
lodges, and desired to receive what the Lodges had to offer. These were "accepted" as
Speculative Masons. They were' not required to serve an apprenticeship and present a Master's
Piece. The Operative Masons were free and the Specalutives were accepted, thus Lodges had the
two kinds of Masons. Gradually the Operative Masons became fewer and fewer until finally
none were left but the Speculatives. While we no longer have Free Masons in the old sense, we
still retain the old titles, "Free" and "Accepted." (Also see "Origin of Freemasonry.")
Gavel-The Gavel is the Symbol of authority. By a strict interpretation, it should always be
actually in the hand of the presiding officer. It is the opinion of the writer that the Master should
carry the Gavel with him when he descends from the East for any purpose, even in the second
section of the Master Mason degree.
Great Light- A Volume of the Sacred Law must be open on the Altar, but that is not always the
Holy Bible. A Lodge wholly Jewish might use only the Old Testament; in Turkey and Persia the
Koran of the Mohammedans might be used; the Brahmans would use the Vedas. In the Far East,
where Lodges have members of many creeds, it is customary to have several Holy Books on the
Altar. Any V. S. L., of course, to be acceptable as a Great Light of Freemasonry, must conform
to our belief in a Supreme Being and in immortality of the soul.
Hat- Origin of the custom that the Master shall wear a Hat is difficult to trace. Pictures or
representations of Masters of early days of Speculative Masonry show them both with and
without Hats. The symbolism of the Hat is as uncertain as the origin of the custom that it shall be
worn. The most widely accepted suggestion is that the Hat is a symbol of the crown worn by
King Solomon, legendary first Grand Master, although he probably wore nothing more rigid than
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a turban. An equally plausible explanation is that to keep the head covered while all around are
uncovered indicates superiority of rank or office. If there is anywhere a requirement that the
Master shall wear a Hat, this writer has been unable to find it. There is nothing on the subject in
the Ancient Landmarks or Ancient Charges. The Oregon ritual recognizes the unwritten law, if
such it may be called, by indicating at what points in our ceremonies the Hat shall be removed.
The Hat points out the one in authority, but it does not symbolize authority, that being inherent in
the Gavel. The Master would have the same authority without his Hat. In fact, the custom of
wearing the Hat is not universal. In England and Canada it is not worn. Wearing the Hat seems
almost to be peculiar to Lodges in the United States.
Hecatomb-A hundred cattle; sometimes the sacrifice of a hundred cattle.
Hele-(Pronounced " hail.") To cover, hide or conceal. (Always hele.)
Hiram A bif- (Sometimes spelled Abiff or Abbiff or Abi.
It is a Hebrew word signifying "father," or "father of," or "his father," or "my father." It was used
as a term of honor, rather than to indicate blood relationship, and frequently was bestowed upon
persons of distinguished skill or attainment. This is a plausible explanation for its bestowal upon
Hiram the Builder in the position of a surname, although merely an appellative. However, the
definition of the word has led some to suggest that the chief character of our legend was either
the father or son of Hiram of Tyre. Confusion as to the identity of Hiram results from the
reference in Kings to "a widow's son of the tribe of Naphtali," while Chronicles refers to "the son
of a woman of the daughters of Dan." In both of these Bible references the father of Hiram is
described as a cunning worker in metals. These contradictory references suggest the possibility
that there were two Hirams taking prominent parts in the construction of the Temple. This
possibility is supported by the unlikelihood that Hiram the Builder could neglect his duties as
chief architect to play the part of the Hiram who cast the pillars of brass, the molten sea, the
twelve oxen which supported the molten sea, and the other cunning works in metal. Another
possibility is that, as both Bible references speak of the father (of Hiram Abif) as a cunning
worker in brass and other metals, the father and son both may have been employed, the father as
the cunning worker in metals. "Father" seems also to have been a name of office, also to have
signified benefactor, master, teacher, or one who excels in anything, which may be a further
explanation of why the term was applied to our Hiram. By use of the prefix "Adon," signifying
lord or master, the name of Hiram is changed by one school of thought on the Hiramic
controversy to "Adonhiram" or "Adoniram." Under this name we get a third Hiram to add to
confusion. Adoniram, who had been tax collector under both David and Solomon, was placed
over the levies of workmen sent to Mount Lebanon. There is a multiplicity of Hirams (or
Adonirams) and none of them, so far as the Bible or the Talmud discloses, ever played the
sacrificial part we give our Hiram. In fact, there is no historical support anywhere for a tragedy
during the building of the Temple, while there is support for the contention that one of the
Hirams (or Adonirams) was tax collector after the completion of the Temple. Josephus tells us
Hiram died in old age after the completion of the Temple.
Just and Regularly Constituted - A Lodge is just when the statutory number of members are
present and it has been properly opened and the Great Lights displayed. It is regularly constituted
when it has been issued a Charter by the legal Grand Lodge of the Jurisdiction. (A Lodge under
Dispensation is regularly "instituted.").
Landmark - A universally recognized unalterable and unrepealable fundamental, characteristic or
marker which has existed from time immemorial. The Ancient Landmarks of Freemasonry may
thus be said to have, from time immemorial, designated the boundaries, fundamentals and
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characteristics of Freemasonry. There is confusion as to what are the Ancient Landmarks of
Freemasonry because no one has authority to compile a list for universal adoption and no list has
been universally adopted. Many Grand Lodges list a compilation of Landmarks, but such
recognition does not make Landmarks, nor unmake any not so recognized. Unquestioned
Landmarks, universally recognized and observed, include requirement for belief in a Supreme
Being and in immortality of the soul, powers of the Grand Master, modes of recognition, the
requirement for meeting in tyled Lodges, the requirement that each Lodge must have a Master
and two Wardens, the right of visitation. Oregon and a large number of other Jurisdictions have
adopted a list of 25 prepared by Mackey, but some of these are of doubtful antiquity. In Oregon
as well as in the larger number of other Jurisdictions, a list of Landmarks is published in the
Manual, but in some Jurisdictions they are part of the unwritten law. The Grand Lodge of
England has no printed list of Landmarks; this despite the fact that the question of observance of
the Ancient Landmarks brought a second Grand Lodge to England, and agreement upon
observance of the Landmarks brought about the union of these two Grand Lodges. In the opinion
of this writer, the Landmarks can be universal, unalterable and unrepealable only as unwritten
law. Adopting a list has the effect, in the Jurisdiction in which adopted, of repealing Landmarks
not adopted, thus doing away with universality. That Landmarks can be preserved as unwritten
law has been proved by the preservation of signs and words that have never been printed or
illustrated, or even represented by a letter or distinguishing mark of any kind.
Legend-Legendary - A legend is a narrative, whether true or false, which has been traditionally
preserved. Usually the source cannot be authentically traced. The legends of Freemasonry have
been repeated so many times they are often mistakenly accepted as authenticated historical fact.
So far as this writer is concerned, it makes not the least difference whether our legends are fact
or fiction, but he knows of none that has been authenticated.
Lewis - The son of a Mason. A term not used in American Freemasonry. In early English
Masonry a Lewis was privileged to be made a Mason after having passed the age of 18 years.
The Scotch Constitution did, probably still does, permit a Lewis to be "entered" upon reaching
18 years. In Operative Masonry a lewis was a cramp of metal which was inserted into a cavity in
a stone so as to give attachment for a pulley by use of which a stone could be more easily raised.
This writer fails to see any clear symbolism to connect the lewis of Operative Freemasonry with
the Lewis (son of Mason) of Speculative Freemasonry.
Libertine - Derived from the Latin "libertinus", signifying a person who once was in bondage.
Used to designate one who has released himself from the bonds or restraints of religious belief
and has become a doubter. Masonically, one who, although he may not be an atheist, denies the
distinctive doctrine of revealed religion.
Lion of the Tribe of Judah - This expression is borrowed from the Apocalypse, " Behold, the lion
which is of the Tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose
the seven seals thereof." In this quotation Solomon is pointed to as the Lion of the Tribe of
Judah. Masonically the expression is a Symbol of the Resurrection, and, in its original
interpretation, referred to Jesus the Christ. (There are early Bible references to the lion of Judah,
one as early as Genesis 49:9, but the larger number of Masonic writers give the explanation
advanced by this writer.)
Lodge of the Holy Sts. John of (at) Jerusalem – This mythical Lodge was dedicated first to St.
John the Baptist, then to St. John the Evangelist, and finally to both. From this Lodge all Lodges
are figuratively supposed to descend. Some old Masonic documents read: "From the Lodge of
the Holy St. John of Jerusalem, Under the Distinctive Appellation of . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. " (Local
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name and number were inserted.) This Lodge is purely an imaginary one created by early
Operative Masons - who wished to have a Mother Lodge for their Patron Saint or Saints. As the
Ritual is woven about the construction of the Temple at Jerusalem, and legendary history tells us
that there Masonry originated, it was natural that this imaginary Lodge should be located at
Jerusalem. Arthur D. Hay, Oregon Past Grand Master, has expressed the theory that the Lodge of
the Holy Sts. John is not at Jerusalem at all, but rather in the hearts of the Craftsmen.
Masons at Sight - This is a greatly misunderstood ceremony, probably because so few have seen
it, because no Ritual is provided for it, and because no provision is made for such a ceremony
except in the Ancient Landmarks. Making a Mason at sight actually is the ceremony of making a
Mason within the sight of, or in the presence of, the Grand Master. On sight of the candidate the
Grand Master confers the degrees. This prerogative of the Grand Master has not had what might
be called hearty approval of the Craft, and Grand Masters seldom have used the prerogative,
probably doubting the wisdom of doing so. At least one Jurisdiction within the United States
does not include such a Landmark in its printed list of Landmarks. It is conceivable that the
Grand Master, in exercising this prerogative of doubtful wisdom, could also provide the
ceremony. Actually, however, the ceremony used is about as follows: The Grand Master, having
issued the necessary dispensations, convenes an occasional or emergent Lodge and, without
previous probation for the candidate, and without ballot, confers the three degrees on him.
Necessarily, the requirement for proficiency in the candidates' lectures is set aside, as well as the
waiting period between degrees. The Mason made at sight does not become a member of a
particular Lodge until elected by that Lodge upon petition for affiliation. This writer doubts
whether the prerogative of the Grand Master to make Masons at sight is a Landmark. There is no
record, so far as this writer knows, that this prerogative was recognized until after 1717 .
Master-Must He Preside? - Masters of Oregon Lodges, almost without exception (and probably
almost all Masters elsewhere), consider it mandatory that, if present, they preside during the
business sessions of their Lodges. This opinion probably derives from the provision that the
Master, if present, must open his Lodge. The Master is given power to preside over every
meeting of his Lodge, but that seems not to make it mandatory; on the contrary, it appears to
indicate that someone else may preside and the Master has the power to take the chair at
pleasure. There seems to be no provision, in Oregon at least, that the Master must close his
Lodge. This opinion is also supported by the provision that the Master must open his Lodge
when present. Failure of law to make it a must for the Master to preside, leaves the inference that
whether he does so or not is optional. The opinion here expressed is supported in Claudy's
"Introduction to Freemasonry" (1931): "The Master has the right of presiding over and governing
his Lodge .... He may put any Brother in the East to preside or confer a degree." Some
distinguished Oregon Masons disagree with this writer's conclusions on this subject.
Master's Piece - Some difficult task of stone cutting or setting which, in Operative Freemasonry,
the Entered Apprentice submitted at the end of seven years of service.
Minutes--Why Does the Master Sign? - The Master is responsible for all the official acts of the
Lodge. When his signature is signed to the minutes he indicates that everything therein recorded
was done in accordance with Masonic law and custom, and has been approved by the Lodge.
Mosaic - A surface decoration made by inlaying small stones, glass or other material in pattern.
Nonage - Under legal age.
Oblong Square - The Lodge is a Symbol of the world and the Oblong Square is the ancient
conception of the shape of the world. The Tabernacle and King Solomon's Temple were erected
in this shape. The "oblong square" is not recognized in geometry; in fact, the term seems to be
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used nowhere except in Freemasonry. (It is generally conceded that an Oblong Square is two
squares joined.)
Off or From - Will you stop here or will you continue further?
Origin of Freemasonry - The origin of Speculative Freemasonry, the Masonry we know today, is
easily traced, but masonry as an institution is much older than its minutes, much older than its
degrees. Oldest lodge minutes in existence today are those of the Lodge of Mary's Chapel (a
name Speculative Masonry today hardly would use), being the record of a meeting held in 1599.
The claim of Mary's Chapel Lodge to having been the first in Scotland is contested by Mother
Kilwinning Lodge No. 0, which may have been formed two centuries earlier, although no
records exist to offer as proof. Kilwinning now has the better of the argument so far as
numbering is concerned. It is No. 0, while the Lodge of Mary's Chapel appears as Edinburgh No.
1. The City of York claims to be the birthplace of Freemasonry in England. There is a legend of
a general assembly of Masons having been held in that city in either 926 or 930, which assembly
formed a Grand Lodge under the patronage of Athelstane, King of England. The legend contends
that this general assembly met every year for many years, or for a century or more, then ceased
to exist. In the Edinburgh minutes of 1599, Freemasonry is even then spoken of as ancient, and
plausibility is given such a contention by the oldest known Masonic document, the Regius
Manuscript of 1390, which has the appearance of having been copied from an older manuscript.
It was discovered by James Orchard Halliwell in 1839 in the British museum, where it had
reposed as a moral poem. How long organized Freemasonry had existed before that time, if in
fact it had existed at all, is something upon which Masonic students disagree with some asperity,
which leaves it largely to the individual Mason to make such guess as suits his whim. Few
students, however, attempt to carry organized Freemasonry back to King Solomon's Temple,
although Freemasonry's Lessons and Teachings, many of its Symbols, as well as the Hiramic
legend in varying forms, had even then existed from time immemorial. The admission into
Guilds or Lodges of distinguished persons-statesmen, diplomats, princes, scientists, men of
letters, whose influence was expected to bring social and political recognition, started around
1600, and by 1717, when the first Grand Lodge was formed, the Speculatives must have been in
a majority. A few years after 1717 there were no Operatives remaining in the Fraternity. In 1717,
when Grand Lodge Freemasonry was brought into being by four of the many Lodges then
existing, there was but one ceremony, but, with the ascendancy of the Speculatives, the
ceremony soon was divided into two degrees, Entered Apprentice and Fellow Craft. Soon the
Master Mason degree, with its Hiramic legend, was added. Whether this legend had ever been a
part of Operative Freemasonry is a matter of conjecture. (Also see "Free and Accepted.")
Parts - The degrees into which Masonry is divided. (Also see "Arts" and "Points.")
Perfect Youth Doctrine - This doctrine is not a Landmark. It comes from the Ancient Charges of
1723, in which it is stated that "no Master should take an Entered Apprentice unless he was a
perfect youth, having no maim or defect in his body that may render him incapable of learning
the art of serving his Master's Lord and of being made a Brother." Until comparatively recent
years no one lacking a leg, arm, finger, etc., was considered proper material. While this still is
true in some Jurisdictions, liberal construction of the perfect youth requirement has been given in
others. In Oregon the petitioner must "possess the physical ability to conform substantially to,
and give instruction in, the Arts and Mysteries of Freemasonry; provided that the Grand Master
may issue a dispensation permitting the acceptance of a petition of a person physically maimed
but otherwise qualified. Maiming after the first degree has been conferred is not a
disqualification in this Jurisdiction.
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Pilaster - Column, with capital, shaft and base, usually projected from the wall about one-third of
its width. Usually rectangular in form.
Places-See "Stations and Places."
Point Within a Circle - The point within a circle represents the individual Brother, the circle the
boundary line of his duty, but the origin of this Symbol goes back through the ages and into the
religions of the dim and distant past. A complete paper could be written upon this subject alone.
A point within a circle is found in the early phallic religions and rites in which the human
generative organs were worshipped. The phallus, represented by the point within the circle,
expressing the male generative principle, was the symbol of fecundity. Legendary history of the
earliest years advanced the theory that only the generative principles of the male and female
survived the great deluge. The female principle, symbolized by the moon, assumed the form of a
lunette, while the male principle, symbolized by the sun, by whose heat the earth is made
prolific, placed itself erect in the center of the lunette, and in this form the two principles floated
on the waters and survived. In imitation of this symbolism, temples of the earliest ages were built
in circular form, with a single stone erected in the center and surrounded by a circle of stones. (A
reproduction of one of these temples, Stonehenge, erected by the late Samuel Hill, is an
attraction on the north bank of the Columbia river near the Samuel Hill museum.) The male
principle symbolized the sun, believed by the ancients to be the center of the universe. The
Lodge represents the universe and the Master and Wardens symbolize the sun in three positions,
as it rises in the East, at meridian height in the South, and as it sets in the West. The symbolism
that may be suggested to the wise and thinking mind is almost limitless. A point within a circle is
far more than a mere painting on a lodge room wall. It is far more than merely a part of the
furnishings of a Lodge. In early writings, reference is made to it as a symbol of Deity.
Points - The rules and usages. The head or chief matter. Points are set out in the Old
Constitutions. (See "Arts" and " Parts.")
Profane - Derived from fanum, meaning a temple, and pro, meaning "before," or "outside of."
Masonically the profane are those who stand outside of Freemasonry. There is no opprobrium in
the word as Freemasonry uses it.
Rain - Owing to peculiar atmospheric conditions, rain in Palestine falls largely in the night
season, and there is little doubt this condition prevailed at the time of the building of King
Solomon's Temple.
Refreshment - An expression that has survived from the days when Lodges were called from
labor to drink toasts that were part of the ceremony, or to partake of both liquid and solid food at
intervals during a ceremony of initiation.
Regularly Constituted - See "Just and Regularly Constituted."
Saints John - See "Lodge of the Holy Sts. John."
Scottish Rite - The Scottish Rite degrees, totaling 33, have both names and numbers. This Rite is
divided into several Bodies. In Oregon these Bodies are: The Symbolic Lodge, consisting of the
first three degrees; Lodge of Perfection, 4th to 14th degrees; Chapter of Rose Croix, 15th to 18th
degrees; Council of Kadosh, 19th to 30th degrees; Consistory, 31st and 32nd degrees. The 33rd
is an honorary one for which no petition may be presented. The degrees of the Symbolic Lodge
are not conferred in the United States, except in a few rare instances, nor in any country in which
a regular Grand Lodge of Symbolic Masonry has been established. The Scottish Rite originated
on the continent of Europe, rather than in Scotland. It is believed to have taken its name when
members settled in Scotland, or from the fact that an early patron of the Rite in France was a
member of the royal house of Scotland in exile. The Supreme Council for the Southern
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Jurisdiction of the United States (in which Oregon is included) , with its See at Charleston, S. C.,
and principal offices in Washington, D. C., is the Mother Supreme Council of the World because
it was the first Supreme Council formed following the adoption of General Constitutions at a
general assembly of a conglomeration of Scottish Rite Bodies, held in France in 1786, at which
time order was brought out of chaos. It seems strange in this year 1945, when Freemasonry has
been driven out of Germany, that Frederick the Great is given credit for having been a leader in
Scottish Rite Freemasonry and to have been a moving figure in formulating and effecting
adoption of the General Constitutions. In the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States (in which
Oregon is included) thirty-second degree members of the Rite may receive the decoration of
Knight Commander of the Court of Honor, and from these are made the selections for the highest
degree, the thirty-third. Neither of these honors is subject to petition. Oregon has never had more
than approximately 50 thirty-thirds at one time, nor more than approximately 100 Knights
Commander. The decoration of Knight Commander of the Court of Honor is peculiar to the
Southern Jurisdiction of the United States, but the thirty-third degree is universal. (Also see
"Dependent Bodies.")
Shoe-Plucking Off and Giving to Neighbor - In ancient times, when travel was largely on foot,
the person who gave his shoe to his neighbor indicated in the strongest manner possible his
intention to remain nearby to keep his covenant. He could not easily travel with one foot bare.
This was the rite of decalceation.
Shrine - (Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine)-This is purely an American
institution. It is in no way a part of either Rite of Masonry, but often has been so considered
because its petitioners must be Masons who have completed the thirty-two degrees of Scottish
Rite or who are Knights Templar of the York (American) Rite. To retain membership in the
Shrine the Noble must retain membership in the other Bodies through which he qualified to
petition.
Solomon's Temple - Dedicated 1004 B. C. It retained its original beauty for only 33 years, being
repeatedly ravaged by invaders and alternately despoiled and repaired until finally destroyed by
Titus. Zerubbabel, under Darius, completed rebuilding of the second Temple in 515 B. C. The
third Temple, or Temple of Herod, which was a restoration and enlargement of the Temple of
Zerubbabel, was completed in 4 A. D. and was the scene of the Savior's ministrations. It was
destroyed by the Romans in 70 A. D.
Speculative Freemasonry - A system of ethics having its distinctive moral, religious and
philosophical doctrines.
Stations and Places - There are three stations, those of the Master and the Wardens, whose
positions are fixed in accordance with the positions of the sun, which these officers symbolically
represent. The places of the other officers may be changed for convenience or because of
necessity.
Symbol - See "Emblem."
Tessellated - Formed of little oblongs or squares. One school of thought contends that the
tessellated border which surrounded the ground floor of King Solomon's Temple was a cord
rather than part of the pavement.
Titles of Grand Lodges - Considerable confusion has resulted from the difference in titles by
which Grand Lodges are designated. This difference has come from the fact that Freemasonry
has no general governing body to bring about uniformity. While a constituent Lodge must
receive a Charter from recognized authority, such is not the case with a Grand Lodge. There is
no higher power to prescribe procedure in the formation of a Grand Lodge. The Brethren
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participating in the organization merely follow ancient usage and custom. Each Grand Lodge
may select its own title, although, of course; the title must be such as will bring recognition from
the already existing Grand Lodges. That is the only restraining influence. It seems to have been
the general practice of new Grand Lodges to take the same title as that borne by one of the Grand
Lodges which chartered one or more of the Lodges joining in forming the new Grand Lodge, but
that has not always been true. Washington Grand Lodge, F. & A. M., was formed entirely of
Lodges chartered by Oregon Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. In the United States alone there are
several titles for Grand Lodges. Twenty-four carry the title, "Ancient, Free and Accepted
Masons" (A. F. & A. M.); twenty-three are "Free and Accepted Masons" ( F. & A. M.); one has
the title, "Ancient Free Masons" (A. F. M.), and one is "Free Ancient Accepted Masons" (F. A.
A. M .). "F. & A. M." and "A. F. & A. M." were, or are, the titles of Grand Lodges of the British
